PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany regrets to inform you that the 2020 Summer Concert Series has been canceled due to the current COVID-19 public health emergency.
Fourth of July Fireworks and Concert Cancelled
PARSIPPANY — The Township of Parsippany regrets to inform you that the 4th of July Concert and Fireworks Celebration has been canceled due to the current COVID-19 public health emergency.
Depending on the situation we may have a Township celebration in the Fall.
Parsippany Resident Michael Ilic Completes Intensive Research Project
PARSIPPANY — Michael Ilic a member of the class of 2021 majoring in management engineering at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI), was a member of a student team that recently completed intense research projects titled Management Strategies for Harmful Algal Blooms in Worcester, Massachusetts. Michael is a graduate of Parsippany High School Class of 2017.
At WPI, all undergraduates are required to complete a research-driven, professional-level project that applies science and technology to address an important societal need or issue. Nearly 90% of students typically complete a project in collaboration with partners in communities across the country and around the world, through the university’s 50-plus project centers. Students usually travel to the project center for seven-week terms; this spring, however, due to the global coronavirus pandemic, they worked remotely, using video conferencing and other technology to complete their projects. A signature element of the innovative undergraduate experience at WPI, the project-based curriculum offers students the opportunity to apply their scientific and technical knowledge to develop thoughtful solutions to real problems that affect the quality of people’s lives and make a difference before they graduate.
“The WPI project-based curriculum brings students out of their comfort zones to apply their knowledge to solve real problems for people in communities around the globe,” said Professor Kent Rissmiller, interim dean of WPI’s Interdisciplinary and Global Studies Division. “Students work to solve open-ended problems with people of different backgrounds-all valuable perspectives for surviving and thriving in today’s global marketplace. They also learn the meaning and magic of teamwork; make a real and meaningful difference, and gain a competitive edge for any resume, or graduate or professional school application.”
About Worcester Polytechnic Institute
WPI, a global leader in project-based learning, is a distinctive, top-tier technological university founded in 1865 on the principle that students learn most effectively by applying the theory learned in the classroom to the practice of solving real-world problems. Recognized by the National Academy of Engineering with the 2016 Bernard M. Gordon Prize for Innovation in Engineering and Technology Education, WPI’s pioneering project-based curriculum engages undergraduates in solving important scientific, technological, and societal problems throughout their education and at more than 50 project centers around the world. WPI offers more than 50 bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degree programs across 14 academic departments in science, engineering, technology, business, the social sciences, and the humanities and arts. Its faculty and students pursue groundbreaking research to meet ongoing challenges in health and biotechnology; robotics and the internet of things; advanced materials and manufacturing; cyber, data, and security systems; learning science; For more information click here.
Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce Awards Scholarships
PARSIPPANY — The Parsippany Area Chamber of Commerce awarded two scholarships to graduating seniors.
TYLER WYKA
Tyler Wyka, a 2020 graduate of Parsippany High School, is planning on attending George Washington or Hofstra University.
During his high school years, he worked hard to earn “A” averages in his honors and AP courses while participating in as many extracurricular as he could, taking time with clubs to try and better the community. He was a 12 season athlete, Captain of the swim team, Drum major of the marching band, and Officer in Kiwanis Key Club. Tyler had unforgettable experiences and countless good memories that have taught me the value of hard work, being a leader, and being kind.
Tyler plans to study mechanical engineering and to find organizations that he can continue to grow his intrapersonal, and leadership skills, as well as add to his service background.
Tyler ranked 13 in the Class of 2020, had a GPA of 4.48, and an SAT score of 1360.
Tyler was a member of
- National Honor Society – Inducted for leadership, and scholastic skills as well as his academic integrity, character, and community service
- French Honor Society – (11th grade) Traveled to elementary schools to teach kids french through activities
- Scholar of the Month- Awarded for academic achievement in history and electives my freshman and junior year
- Attended Hugh O’ Brian Youth Leadership Seminar – A result of a recommendation from school staff, and the generosity of the PTA; strengthened leadership skills and performed community service.
- Attended New Jersey Boys State – Elected to positions of Mayor and later County Supervisor. Worked with friends to win the Best County Award at the end of the week. Nominated for the Gordon Vreeland Award.
- ShopRite STARS Leadership recipient – Recognized for excellence in leadership during the fall.
- Junior Awards – Awarded leadership awards from both Clarkson University and Wells College.
Extracurriculars:
- Competitive Marching Band (9th-12th) – Current Drum Major (11th & 12th), awarded Most Valuable Woodwind (2017), and Rookie of the Year (2016), Athlete of the week (2019), the band ranges from 70-90 members a year.
- Swim Team (9th-12th) – Captain senior year, on varsity since freshman year.
- Track and Field (9th-12th) – Javelin thrower, varsity junior year, 2nd place at Morris County Relays (2019).
- Key Club (9th-12th) – Officer for two years, work with peers on community service projects and fundraisers for charity year-round, spoke at District Convention in 2018.
- Jazz Ensemble (10th-12th) – Baritone saxophonist, developed improvisation skills.
- Wind Ensemble/Concert Band (9th-12th) – Alto and baritone saxophonist, developed sight-reading skills.
- Math Team (9th-12th) – Member of the math team as a result of being proficient in honors math all four years.
- Orientation Ambassador (11th-12th) – Worked with other upperclassmen as role models to freshmen, helping them adjust to high school through activities.
Community Service/Employment:
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- Key Club – Over 100 cumulative hours from organizing and attending service events and fundraisers for organizations such as March of Dimes, The Thirst Project, and NJ Hunger
- Saint Christopher’s Church – 50 hours of service (in high school) through performing the role of altar server for nine years total
- Apprentice at Cutting Edge Glass – Spent the past 3 summers working at Cutting Edge Glass learning how to cut and install glass (shower doors, windows, mirrors) commercially and residentially, as well as how to use power tools
MORGAN MARRON
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Morgan Marron, a 2020 graduate of Parsippany Hills High School, is planning on attending TCNJ, Rider University, or Monmouth University and will be majoring in business.
At Parsippany Hills High School she was the president of two clubs, highly active and a board member of many others. She was an honor roll member, a dedicated person, and lastly a motivated student who consistently grew. She constantly showed growth and development over her four years and utilized her skills to help those around her.
She plans to continue her studies and further education and knowledge of business. After graduation, she plans to manage or run her own business that helps others. During college, she intends on continuing to help those around her and do her best to better not only my community but the world.
Since she was a sophomore and continuing through her senior year she volunteers with Morris County Relay for Life, an event that raises funds for cancer research, groundbreaking trials, and cancer support. She held fundraisers all year long in combination with hosting the event. She was able to raise over $109,000 in her junior year when the event returned to Parsippany and was held at Parsippany Hills High School.
Chinese Christian Church to Start a “Meals of Blessings” Program
PARSIPPANY — In an effort to serve our Parsippany community during this pandemic crisis, the Chinese Christian Church of New Jersey (CCCNJ) distributed free surgical masks at our local supermarkets in April. (Click here to read the story)
Recognizing that there are many families who visit the Parsippany Food Pantry for non-perishable food items, CCCNJ wanted to provide these families with hot meals at least once a week. Based on donations from their church members, they have purchased hot meals from local restaurants who could also use the additional business.
Every Wednesday starting July 1 they will be distributing hot meals at 6 pm at our church parking lot, located at 232 South Beverwyck Road, Parsippany.
While the meals are free, people must reserve their meals at least one day in advance by calling us at 973-335-0183 ext. 17 or by clicking here.
For any questions about this program, you can email cccnjblessings@gmail.com.
LEGAL NOTICE
Take notice that in accordance with N.J.S.A. 39:4-56.6, application has been made to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Trenton, New Jersey, to receive title papers authorizing the sale for,
Make Tracker/Tahoe
Year 1988
VIN/Hull Identification Number BUJ02598A888
Objections, if any, should be made in writing, immediately in writing to the Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission, Special Title Unit, P.O. Box 017, Trenton, New Jersey, 08666-0017.
Parsippany Focus June 24, 2020
Freeholder Board’s June 24 Virtual Meetings — Residents Invited to Attend
MORRIS COUNTY — Due to the COVID-19 crisis and the need for social distancing and avoiding group gatherings, the Morris County Board of Freeholders will meet virtually on Wednesday, June 24. Residents are invited to “attend” the meeting.
“We continue to operate county government safely during this COVID-19 crisis, with all important functions of government being maintained,” said Freeholder Director Deborah Smith. “As we do this, we remain vigilant on social distancing, wearing face coverings, and limiting public gatherings. So, we invite you to join our county government meetings online for now and look forward to meeting you again in person in the future.”The Freeholder Board also will hold a work session at 4:30 p.m., followed by the 7:00 p.m. regular public meeting. Public comment is only allowed at the 7:00 p.m. public session.
Residents are invited to watch and/or listen at 4:30 p.m. and again at 7:00 p.m. At the later meeting, there will be a public comment period that will be announced by the Freeholder Director Deborah Smith.
WORK SESSION 4:30 p.m.
There is no public comment period during this meeting, but the public is invited to attend.
Video Access: WebEx attendee link by clicking here.
Audio Only Access: Phone number is 1-408-418-9388 and enter access code 129 817 5770
PUBLIC MEETING 7:00 p.m.
There will be a public comment period, which will be announced by the Freeholder Director during the meeting.
Video Access: WebEx attendee link by clicking here.
Audio Only Access: Phone number: 1-408-418-9388 Event number/Access code: 129 503 3546
Residents are asked to please mute their phones when they join they join the meeting, except if they are participating in the public comment period, and then to mute again after commenting. Also, please try to “line up” politely with other callers during the comment period. It would be much appreciated.
O’Donnell Former Law Partner, Elizabeth Valandingham, Charged in Scheme to Secure Legal Contracts in Exchange for Bribes
MORRIS COUNTY — Attorney General Gurbir S. Grewal announced charges against an attorney stemming from a major corruption probe by the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability (OPIA) that previously led to five former public officials and political candidates in New Jersey being charged with taking bribes.
Elizabeth Valandingham, 47, Morristown, was served with complaint-summonses on Wednesday, June 17, charging her with second-degree false representation for government contracts and second-degree misconduct by a corporate official. Click here to view complaints.
Elizabeth Valandingham was listed as an attorney on O’Donnell McCord, PC website. In an article posted in New Jersey Globe, it was stated “The central figure in a sting operation that has led to bribery charges against five officials is in the process of closing his law firm, the New Jersey Globe has learned.” Also in New Jersey Globe, it was reported “The whistleblower told state and federal authorities that O’Donnell and his law partner, Elizabeth Anne Valandingham, have moved substantial amounts of money through relatives, employees, and friends who have made large campaign contributions. Valandingham’s sister, Vanessa Brown, and her brother-in-law, Christopher Brown, have contributed more than $107,000 to New Jersey candidates since 2010, according to records filed with the New Jersey Election Law Enforcement Commission.” (Click here to read article).
The charges against Valandingham relate to alleged conduct between 2012 and 2017 at the law firm where she worked. One of her duties at the law firm was to prepare and submit annual proposals to various municipalities in order for the firm to garner public contracts for legal services.
Between 2012 and 2016, Valandingham submitted proposals to the Township of Bloomfield to provide legal services for the years 2013 through 2017. For each submission, Bloomfield required the firm, as a material part of its submission, to disclose any reportable political contributions the firm made to an enumerated list of candidates and party committees. For each year, Valandingham indicated the firm made no political contributions, and for each year, Bloomfield awarded the firm its contracts for legal services, valued in the aggregate at approximately $120,000. It is alleged, however, that in each year for which Valandingham indicated no reportable political contributions, the firm, in fact, made contributions.
It is alleged in the complaints that Valandingham, along with an unnamed co-conspirator, recruited friends and family members to act as straw donors— people who made political contributions and would subsequently be reimbursed in cash by the firm for those contributions. It is alleged that, in total, during the time that Valandingham indicated that the firm made no contributions, the firm made tens of thousands of dollars in straw contributions.
In 2016, Valandingham submitted a proposal for legal services to the Borough of Mount Arlington for the year 2017. Mount Arlington required that Valandingham certify that the firm made no reportable political contributions in the year preceding the award of the contract. She certified that no reportable contributions were made in 2016, and the borough awarded the firm a lucrative contract, earning the firm in excess of $470,000. It is alleged that, in fact, Valandingham made contributions through her straw donors to Mount Arlington officials in the amount of $7,500 in 2016.
The defendants initially charged in the OPIA investigation – former Jersey City School Board President Sudhan Thomas, former State Assemblyman and Bayonne mayoral candidate Jason O’Donnell, former Morris County Freeholder John Cesaro, former Mount Arlington Councilman John Windish, and former Morris County freeholder candidate Mary Dougherty – face pending charges of second-degree bribery in official and political matters for allegedly taking thousands of dollars in bribes from a cooperating witness in the form of campaign contributions. In return, the defendants allegedly promised the cooperating witness – who is a tax attorney – that they would vote or use their official authority or influence to hire or continue to hire his law firm for lucrative government legal work.
Valandingham is charged in connection with conduct that is not directly related to the bribery allegations against the other five defendants.
The investigation is being conducted by the OPIA Corruption Bureau, under the leadership of OPIA Director Thomas Eicher. Deputy Attorneys General John A. Nicodemo, and Anthony Robinson are prosecuting the cases, under the supervision of Corruption Bureau Chief Peter Lee and Counsel to the Director Anthony Picione.
Second-degree crimes carry a sentence of five to 10 years in state prison and a fine of up to $150,000.
The charges are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Attorney General Grewal created the Office of Public Integrity and Accountability in September 2018 to combat corruption and strengthen public confidence in government institutions. In December 2019, the Attorney General issued a directive codifying OPIA and making it a permanent part of the Attorney General’s Office. That directive established the OPIA Corruption Bureau as the lead office within the Department of Law & Public Safety for the investigation and prosecution of state criminal violations involving corruption and abuse of public trust.
Summer Hours at Town Hall Begin
PARSIPPANY — Summer Office Hours are Monday to Thursday 8:45 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Friday 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
These hours are effective now through Labor Day.
Employees take 30-minute lunches, so they’re available earlier in the morning and afternoon during the week to better assist residents.
Parsippany Community Update June 23, 2020
PARSIPPANY — As we move through Phase 2 of our state’s reopening and move closer to the “new normal”, it is incredibly important that we continue following the best practices that have gotten us to this point.
Outdoor Visitation with Long-Term Care Residents
MORRIS COUNTY —Residents of long-term care facilities will be able to have outdoor visits with loved ones in designated outdoor space under a directive to long-term care facilities issued by the state Department of Health.
The Health Department has received input and worked collaboratively with long-term care providers on developing this directive to accommodate visitors.
Prior to transporting a long-term care resident to a designated outdoor space, visitors must be screened for COVID-19 symptoms – including a temperature check – and facilities must follow safety and infection prevention and control measures in order to allow visitation.
“Being apart from our loved ones has been one of the most difficult challenges throughout the pandemic—especially for long-term care residents and their families. This directive outlines the measures that must be in place to reduce risk to this vulnerable population while allowing visits outdoors,” said Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli. “Virtual communication could never replace gathering face to face gatherings with loved ones. We hope these outdoor visitations bring joy and comfort to residents as well as their loved ones—while also protecting them.”
The directive applies to dementia care homes, long-term care facilities, pediatric transitional care homes, assisted living residences and programs, and comprehensive personal care homes.
Only two visitors will be permitted at a time and must stay six feet apart from the resident. Visitors and residents are required to wear face coverings, and a staff member—wearing a surgical mask—must remain with the resident during the visit. A resident who is suspected or confirmed to be infected with COVID-19 or quarantined for exposure cannot have visitors. A resident who has tested positive can have visitors after they have met the criteria to discontinue isolation.
Facilities must submit an attestation at least 24 hours before they begin outdoor visitation confirming that they have implemented the directive’s requirements, and have a location designated for visitation, sufficient staff and personal protective equipment, and a method to schedule appointments.
Facilities are required to communicate the visitor policy to residents, families, staff, and others, and must receive informed consent in writing from the resident and visitor that they will comply with the facility’s policies during the visit. As part of the consent form, visitors must agree to notify the facility if they test positive for COVID or have symptoms within 14 days of visiting.
Charlie Brown’s Denville Out of Business
MORRIS COUNTY — Recently sign crews were seen removing the outside signs from Charlie Brown’s Denville. In addition, the furniture inside was removed. Calls to Charlie Brown’s went unanswered. The toll-free phone number for their corporate office is disconnected. The last entry to their Facebook page was September 24, 2016. Denville was removed from online ordering on their website, although the location still appears on their app.
Charlie Brown’s was located at 167 West Main Street. They were best known for their famous Unlimited Farmer’s Market Salad Bar.™
Serving New Jersey with over 50 years of experience, Charlie Brown’s Fresh Grill and Steakhouse offered their signature and aged hand-carved, slow-roasted prime rib, delicious USDA Choice steaks, and juicy USDA Choice burgers.
Charlie Brown’s Fresh Grill in Old Tappan closed in January 2020.
The company that owns Charlie Browns, CB Holdings, filed for bankruptcy in 2010. The corporate website is available by clicking here.
Formerly known as Charlie Brown’s Steakhouse, the first location opened in Westfield in 1966.
Kiwanis Club Donates Coloring Books and Crayons to Food Pantry
PARSIPPANY — With the increase in the number of families relying on receiving food from the Parsippany Food Pantry, Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany donated coloring books and crayons to be given to the children when their families are picking up food.
President Frank Cahill said “With the increase in families visiting the Parsippany Food Pantry our members have made a donation of coloring books and crayons for the children to keep them occupied during these times. With schools being closed, and the cancellation of summer camps, we feel children need things to keep them occupied, so we prepared the gifts to supply the children in need.”
Interested in learning more about the Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany, contact Frank Cahill, President Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany at (862) 213-2200.
Kiwanis Club of Greater Parsippany meetings weekly via zoom meetings every Thursday Morning at 7:30 a.m. Join us for breakfast to learn more about our group of volunteers. For more information click here.
Parsippany Indian Association Donates Food to Parsippany Food Pantry
PARSIPPANY — Parsippany Indian Association has donated 2,500 pounds of various food products to Parsippany Food Pantry to provide our community members support during these difficult time of Corona Virus Pandemic. In the past, Parsippany Indian Association organized Food Drives to donate to Parsippany Food Pantry.
In addition, Parsippany Indian Association has donated to A2Z Narayan Food, Seva by Mira Desai to serve food to the poor, needy, and homeless shelter in Trenton says Raj Amin.
Indoor Dining to Return on July 2; 25% of Capacity
MORRIS COUNTY — Governor Phil Murphy announced increased indoor and outdoor gathering capacity limits as COVID-19 cases in New Jersey continue to decline.
Effective immediately, indoor gatherings are now limited to 25% capacity of the rooms in which they will take place, with a maximum of 100 persons.
Outdoor gatherings are now limited to 250 persons, and outdoor religious services and political activities will continue to have no numerical limits.
Indoor dining will return to New Jersey on July 2, Governor Phil Murphy.
Restaurants will be able to serve patrons indoors, provided they only use 25 percent of their usual indoor seating capacity.
“While we are still in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the commonsense public health measures that New Jerseyans have been complying with are now allowing for us to expand capacity limits,” said Governor Murphy. “We will continue to evaluate and make reopening decisions based on data, science, and facts. I thank the people of our great state for the collective effort that has enabled us to take steps like these.”
Before this Order, indoor gatherings were limited to 25% capacity, but with a maximum of 50 persons, and outdoor gatherings were limited to 100 persons, with the exception of outdoor religious services and political activities.
Furthermore, this Order clarifies that for the purposes of outdoor dining, “outdoor areas” are to be defined as open-air spaces without a fixed roof, besides a temporary or seasonal awning or cover.
To read Executive Order No. 156, click here.
Parsippany Community Update June 22, 2020
PARSIPPANY — This morning, personal care services throughout New Jersey were able to open for business. A comprehensive guide to all requirements can be found by clicking here.
European Wax Center to Reopen with Specials
PARSIPPANY — The European Wax Centers of Parsippany is reopening on Monday, June 22. In celebration of the reopening, they are offering a wide array of promotions to enhance their guests’ experiences.
Now through July 31, eligible Frontline Heroes will enjoy a one-time free service of their choice as a thank you for their support during the pandemic. This is being done to recognize, thank, and offer a confidence boost to those who helped get the community through the Coronavirus Pandemic. We appreciate the frontline heroes whose essential work outside of their home during the pandemic meaningfully contributed to the health, welfare, and wellbeing of their community.
For a limited time, new and repeat guests can Buy One Service and receive a Second Same Day Service 50% off! In addition, new and returning guests can Buy nine and get three Free services when filling up their Wax Passes or Buy 12 Months of Unlimited Wax Pass and Get the 13th Free. Wax Pass holders can receive 20% off the product and 10% off service purchases now through December 31.
European Wax Center is also offering up to 40% off on some of their fantastic products via Spring Product Bundles such as the Stayput Brow Pencil, Sharpener + Perfect Brow Groomer: $25.00 (Reg. $43.00). Products in bundle offers cannot be substituted. All EWC products are cruelty-free and formulated without parabens and mineral oils.
As the leader in the waxing industry, European Wax Center always takes hygiene and safety seriously, and in light of the COVID-19 situation, they have increased their policies and practices. European Wax Center is committed to the highest sanitation standards for our guests and employees to ensure the health and safety of all who enter our centers. Click here to learn more about how we plan to keep you smooth and safe during this time as well as how to register for the Frontline Heroes discount.
Frank and Son Pizzeria Closes Its Doors
PARSIPPANY — Frank and Sons Pizzeria, 355 Parsippany Road, has decided to close their doors for the very last time after 49 years.
Unfortunately due to COVID-19, they had to make the decision to close their doors.
“Without every one of you, the last 49 years would not have been possible. The Frank and Son family will miss you all. Stay healthy and safe. Love, The Frank and Son family,” said the family.
Parsippany College Connect Presents: College Q&A Zoom Edition
PARSIPPANY — “Parsippany College Connect will be hosting its first College Q&A video discussion via Zoom on Tuesday, June 23 at 7:00 p.m.
This event is open to all Parsippany high schoolers. Participants will be able to ask questions and connect with Parsippany college student panelists, who will discuss their personal experiences.
This is an excellent opportunity to learn more about what life’s like after graduating from Parsippany Hills or Parsippany High in a welcoming and friendly environment. If you are interested in attending, you can sign up by clicking here.
Parsippany College Connect is an online community for Parsippany-Troy Hills School District students to learn from and connect with past PTHSD students currently in college, featuring an alumni directory, blog, and college FAQs.
Parsippany College Connect was launched by Parsippany Hills High School ‘17 alumni Czar Alexei Sepe, Alisha Gangadharan, Lucas Folan, and Nicky Parekh. (click here)
They hope that Parsippany College Connect provides an online platform to build community in our town during a time when they may feel the most disconnected. This grassroots effort created for Parsippany students by Parsippany students provides a way that PTHSD alumni can lend a helping hand to a graduating Class of 2020 who deserve to feel comfortable and supported as they enter the next chapter of their lives. For them, this is their small way of giving back to the community that has constantly supported them.
Morris County COVID-19 Drive Thru Testing Center To Close
MORRIS COUNTY — Morris County will close its COVID-19 drive-thru testing center at County College of Morris at the end of next week, with the last scheduled day of free testing set for Friday, June 26, announced county officials.
When testing began, there was a 43 percent positive rate among residents with symptoms and prescriptions who were tested at the county center, said, officials. Those positive numbers have now dropped dramatically, with positive results for the past few weeks at less than 1 percent of those tested, they said.
“The skills and organizational powers of the partners in this effort made the creation of the testing site a successful response to help residents who were affected by the devastating virus. Its ultimate success hinged on all the partners communicating seamlessly, rapidly resolving any issues, and caring about the physical and emotional toll on clients who used the site,” said Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon.
The drop in positive numbers as well as the numerous urgent care facilities and pharmacies across the count that now offer nasal swab and saliva tests, allows the current CCM site to close. The site opened on March 30 to help deal with the large numbers of people needed to get COVID-19 tests. While open, the CCM site provided nasal swab tests to more than 7,000 people.
“We are indebted to all of the agencies and volunteers that came together to operate this testing center during the height of the COVID- 19 crisis in our county”, said Morris County Freeholder Director Deborah Smith.